At the Denver Neck Pain Health Center, we have seen many links between the cervical spine, (neck) and other parts of the body. The Temporal Mandibular Joint, or TMJ, is just one of those areas. It is a small joint in the front of a person’s ear that connects the mandible to the skull. It is also the most active joint of the body. Through talking, chewing, swallowing, etc., the average human being moves the TMJ up to 2,000 times daily. In the past decade, research has accrued enough data to show a link between symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction (TMJD) and Cervical Spine Dysfunction (CSD). In other words, neck and jaw problems are related.

Approximately 35% of the American population is affected by TMJD. Pain medication and/or lifestyle changes have shown results in treating the symptoms, but the right chiropractic care can help eliminate them permanently.

Dr. Visentin D.C. uses gentle chiropractic to reduce the pain associated with TMJ, while also increasing the range of motion and mobility in the jaw and neck area. Specific gentle adjustments align the TMJ, and help patients suffering from TMJD.

This type of chiropractic care will also reduce the amount of grinding and/or clicking that TMJ patients experience when they open and close their mouths. Discomfort throughout the body is reduced as well. TMJD is the perfect example of what happens to a body out of balance and how chiropractic can effectively help.

There are several different causes of TMJD. It can be due to missing teeth that force the jaw out of position. Car accidents or any other accident can cause the jaw to be knocked out of place. Sleeping on the stomach or side, can cause the jaw to be displaced as well. Grinding teeth while sleeping however is the most common reason for TMJD.

Pain can start gradually and increase over several days or months. Pain may occur when opening and closing the mouth. The jaw will click, forcing the mandible to a side. Occasionally, just moving the head or neck can create stress on the joint. The constant pressure creates severe pain in the jaw and excessive strain on the muscles. If untreated. TMJD can lead to tinnitus, or ringing in the ears.

Dr. Visentin, D.C. and the Denver Neck Pain Health Center can reduce the discomfort a patient has around the jaw area, and help eliminate the head and ear aches that are commonly associated with TMJ problems. They can also eliminate the excessive strain and pressure over the muscles around the jaw and neck regions.

Care for TMJD has several variables, including the severity of the condition, medical history and if the patient has had previous chiropractic care. TMJD is often overlooked by physicians. If you are suffering from TMJD and live in the Denver area, schedule a FREE consultation with Dr. Visentin, D.C. He will perform a thorough assessment of the head and neck area and create a customized plan to address your condition. Call (303) 394-CARE (2273).

Written For: Dr. Visentin, D.C.

Care Chiropractic
Denver, CO